zucchini garlic bites

INGREDIENTS

1 cup shredded zucchini
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
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INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by shredding the zucchini. After shredding, use a clean towel to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure your bites are crispy rather than soggy.
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini with the egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Form Bites: Shape the mixture into small balls, approximately the size of a tablespoon, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
NUTRITION
Serving Size: 1 normal portionCalories: 30Fat: 1.5gCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0.5gProtein: 2g

20 Tips for Perfect Zucchini Garlic Bites 🥒🧄

1. Drain the Zucchini Well 🧽

Squeeze as much water as possible out of the shredded zucchini using a clean kitchen towel to avoid soggy bites.

2. Add Extra Garlic for a Stronger Flavor 🧄

If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove of garlic to enhance the flavor.

3. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch 🍞

For a crispier texture, substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko breadcrumbs.

4. Grate Parmesan Freshly 🧀

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a stronger flavor compared to pre-grated.

5. Add Herbs for More Flavor 🌿

Experiment with additional fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a more vibrant taste.

6. Season Generously with Salt and Pepper 🧂

Be sure to taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for the perfect seasoning.

7. Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniform Bites 🍪

Use a cookie scoop to portion out the zucchini mixture evenly for consistent bite sizes.

8. Don’t Overmix the Ingredients 🔄

Mix until just combined to avoid a dense texture in the bites.

9. Grease Your Hands for Easier Shaping 🖐️

Lightly grease your hands with olive oil when forming the zucchini balls to prevent sticking.

10. Line the Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper 📝

Use parchment paper to prevent the bites from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

11. Bake Until Golden Brown 🍞

Bake until the bites are a nice golden brown color for the best texture and flavor.

12. Flip Midway Through Baking 🔄

For even browning, gently flip the bites halfway through the baking time.

13. Add a Touch of Spice 🌶️

For a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

14. Make it Cheesy 🧀

Add some shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the mix for an extra cheesy version.

15. Use Olive Oil Spray for a Golden Finish 🌟

Lightly spray the bites with olive oil before baking to help them brown evenly.

16. Serve with a Dipping Sauce 🍶

Pair the bites with a marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.

17. Try Different Cheese Varieties 🧀

Experiment with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

18. Make Ahead and Freeze ❄️

Prepare and shape the bites ahead of time and freeze them. Bake from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

19. Use an Air Fryer for Extra Crispiness 🍽️

For an even crispier texture, cook the bites in an air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

20. Garnish with Fresh Herbs 🌿

Garnish the baked bites with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of freshness.

These tips will help you make the perfect, crispy, and flavorful zucchini garlic bites every time!